Vigil against xenophobia

According to Lead SA’s Yusuf Abramjee, both the venue and the date was chosen symbolically. Constitution Hill is a landmark in South Africa’s history and the date corresponded with 21 years of the country’s democracy.

Abramjee stated that the intention of the gathering was to reflect on the flare up of xenophobic violence that has occurred over the past couple of weeks. “The hope is to send a loud message that we are all unified,” he said.

Ordinary South Africans, media personalities, along with local politicians including Gauteng Premier David Makhura and Johannesburg Mayor Parks Tau all gathered in solidarity and support for those affected by the recent spate of xenophobic attacks.

They congregated at the vigil to reflect on the past couple of weeks, and made a principled stand against xenophobia.

Radio presenter Xolani Gwala delivered a short speech to contextualise the event. Gwala asserted that the xenophobic attacks did not represent what most South Africans stood for.

“We will do everything in our power to influence those around us, to spread the word that we look after people here, [that] we represent the best in humanity, [we are not represented by] what has happened in the past couple of weeks,” said Gwala.

He then read the preamble to the South African constitution in which he quoted, “South Africa belongs to all who live in it, united in our diversity.”

The gathering then turned their attention to the South African flag that was raised above Constitution Hill as a group of school pupils sang the national anthem.